Sir:

I have been favored with two letters from you, respecting Mr. Morris’ Notes being received in the public Taxes of the State, together with one from Mr. Morris on that subject. As I cannot do myself the honor to lay them before that body who have thought proper in their present circumstances not to levy a Continental Tax, agreeably to that Gentleman’s plan of Finance, but in lieu thereof, have granted specific supplies of provisions to answer the immediate purpose of supporting the Army, it will not perhaps be necessary to lay out those Notes in this State for the purchase of provisions, or for articles that may be bartered for provisions; but as the last is a very troublesome piece of business I wish to ease you and every Gentleman doing business for the Army as much as possible, and to give Mr. Morris’ Notes every encouragement and credit in my power as far as the same can be done without legislative aid. I shall therefore shortly consult the Council on this subject, and with their approbation, I shall recommend it to the several Collectors to receive those Notes in Taxes as requested by you, until the next meeting of the General Assembly. Expecting the pleasure of meeting you at Salisbury or Charlotte (as I mentioned to your express should he see you on his return) delayed my answering your Letters sooner.